There are many types of STDs around. Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs are infections that you can acquire by having sex. STDs infect the sexual and reproductive organs. Most types of STDs can be cured after seeking treatment. Other types of STDs don’t show any symptoms. However, some STDs are incurable.There are two basic types of STDs: bacterial and viral.
Bacterial Types of STDs
Bacterial STDs, as the name implies, are caused by different bacteria. Bacterial STDs include Vaginitis, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease.
1. Vaginitis is the infection in the vagina. It has 3 common types: candidiasis (yeast infection), bacterial vaginosis (B”), “) and trichomoniasis (trich). Some signs of vaginitis may include itching, pain, burning and change in the discharge.
2. Chlamydia (NGU) is the number STD in the US. It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Although its symptoms are usually mild or sometimes absent it can damage the reproductive organ of a woman and may cause serious problems such are infertility.
3. Gonorrhea is usually asymptomatic but some people may experience discharges in the vagina, penis, or rectum. Burning or itching sensation may also occur during urination. It affects the reproductive tract as well as the mouth, throat ad eyes.
Viral Types of STDs
Viral STDs are caused by different viruses. Aside from sexual intercourse with condom, they can also be passed though blood transfusion, sharing needles. Infants can also get them from their mothers. Some viral types of STDs such as genital herpes and HIV/AIDS are incurable while to others can be fatal.
1. Genital herpes is caused by herpes simplex viruses. Some of the symptoms may include itching or burning sensations and small, painful blisters. These blisters may go away without medication but genital herpes can be recurrent. Read related article, What is Herpes?
2. Genital warts is caused by HPV or human papillomavirus. The virus produce warts that may appear in the skin of the penis, vulva, anus, vaginal lining, cervix and rectum.
3. Hepatitis B and C are both caused by viruses that attack the liver. By damaging the liver, it can cause fatal damage to the body. It can be transferred by direct contact of body fluids.
4. HIV/AIDS destroys the body’s immune system which makes the body very susceptible to different infections.